Riyadh walking tour & city guide
A modern capital with mud-brick roots.
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Riyadh, Saudi Arabia's capital, is a huge, modern city in the heart of the desert. Skyscrapers and new entertainment districts stand alongside the mud-brick fort and palaces where the Saudi state began.
History
Diriyah, on the city's edge, was the original home of the Saudi royal family. Its At-Turaif district, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, has restored mud-brick palaces. Masmak Fort, in the old center, is a symbol of the founding of the kingdom.
Modern Riyadh
The Kingdom Centre has a skybridge with views over the city. Boulevard City hosts the Riyadh Season festival. The Edge of the World, a dramatic cliff in the desert, is a popular trip.
Top sights in Riyadh
- 1
At-Turaif, Diriyah
UNESCO-listed mud-brick palaces.
- 2
Masmak Fort
A historic clay fort.
- 3
Kingdom Centre Sky Bridge
Views from a skyscraper.
- 4
National Museum
Saudi history and culture.
- 5
Edge of the World
Dramatic desert cliffs.
Food markets & where to eat in Riyadh
Bujairi Terrace, Diriyah
Restaurants facing the old palaces.
Souq Al Zal
A traditional market.
Tahlia Street
Cafés and restaurants.
Food to try in Riyadh
Kabsa
Spiced rice with meat, the national dish.
Saudi coffee
Cardamom coffee served with dates.
Jareesh
Cracked wheat cooked with meat.
Opening hours and prices change often. Please check with each place before you visit.
Plan your trip to Riyadh
Enjoyed the walk? Here is everything you need to see it for real.
- Hotels in RiyadhCompare places to stay and prices.
- Tours & ticketsWalking tours, museums and day trips in Riyadh.
- eSIM for Saudi ArabiaStay online from the moment you land.
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